Media FAQ's
Q: The airport passenger terminal is a public facility. May the news media access the terminal building, without notifying the Department of Aeronautics?
A: Yes. News media may film or photograph publicly accessible areas without the permission of the Department of Aeronautics. As a courtesy, airport officials ask news organizations to notify the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Communications Center at (616) 233-6055 when a news crew/photographer is sent to film at the airport.
Q: Is it OK for media to park at the passenger terminal curb front when covering a story?
A: No. The federal security guidelines in force since 9-11 allow only for Òactive loading and unloadingÓ by airport visitors, and only authorized government and security vehicles may be parked at the drop-off and pick-up curbs and those vehicles must remain in specially marked areas. Media may park marked vehicles in the designated parking area near gate 4 while on assignment at GFIA. Unmarked and/or personal vehicles must be parked in one of the airport's public parking facilities.
Q: Will the Department of Aeronautics validate parking for media vehicles?
A: No. Parking fees for all media vehicles are the responsibility of the vehicle owner/operator.
Q: Is escort by an airport representative or other authorized personnel necessary when media visit the airport?
A: Sometimes. The need for an escort will depend on the area to be accessed. It is always best to call ahead so that arrangements for an escort may be made if staffing is available.
Q: May news media go beyond the TSA checkpoint and into the gate areas of the terminal to cover stories?
A: Media may go beyond the TSA checkpoint only if escorted by an airline, the TSA or the Kent County Department of Aeronautics. Otherwise, only ticketed passengers may go beyond the checkpoint into the gate areas.
Q: Where should TV media go to set up live shots on airport premises?
A: The designated area for live shots is the parking area near gate 4. If there is a valid reason for media to request a different live shot location, that request will be considered. However, media should understand that a change in live shot location will be the rare exception rather than the rule. Also, safety and security of aircraft and passengers will always have the highest priority. If a TV station is seeking a special arrangement, such requests should be made at the earliest possible time.